Health in Aging, Neurodegenerative Diseases and Dementias In Ontario

The Health in Aging, Neurodegenerative Diseases and DementiaS in ONTario (HANDDS-ONT) Study is an observational study that takes place in the comfort of participant's home, with no study visits occurring in a clinic. The study is recruiting people living with a neurodegenerative disease or the effects of stroke, along with healthy, aging individuals. Studying both groups will help ONDRI researchers to: 1. understand how the diseases affect different people 2. discover ways to potentially detect diseases earlier 3. find ways to help people manage their daily health related behaviours Participant data is collected virtually through wearables - small sensors worn on the wrist, ankle and chest -- for 7-10 days, as participants go about their daily activities. Data is also collected from questionnaires regarding mood and quality of life. Blood samples will be collected to understand how one's genetic makeup could provide for earlier detection of some conditions, and for analysis of certain risk factors. Combining the information from the sensors (walking patterns, sleep, heart rate/rhythm, etc.), the questionnaires and the blood samples will allow researchers to better understand aging, with and without a neurodegenerative condition, over a period of time. Participants will receive a personalized health and activity report, describing sleep and activity during the time the wearable sensors were worn. This information may help participants better understand and manage some aspects of their overall health and it can be shared with their circle of care.